Pit Bull Ban Proposed In Flemingsburg

Pit Bull Ban Proposed In Flemingsburg

Some dog owners in Flemingsburg may have to get rid of their pets if new ordinance changes are passed.

Some dog owners in Flemingsburg may have to get rid of their pets if new ordinance changes are passed.

Flemingsburg City Council members voted Monday to possibly ban pit bulls within city limits.

City officials said the proposed changes follow several complaints about pit bulls around Flemingsburg.

The ordinance reads, “It is hereby determined that pit bull dogs have inherently vicious and dangerous propensities, and are potentially hazardous and unreasonably dangerous to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens residents and inhabitants of the city.”

City Clerk Joy Roark said there were two pit bull owners that attended Monday’s meeting to ask council members to reconsider, but members still voted unanimously to pass the ordinance changes.

The second reading is expected at the council’s next meeting on June 10. If passed, pit bull owners will have 30 days to get rid of their dogs. Anyone who doesn’t follow the new ordinance could be fined $250 and would have their dog taken away.

Flemingsburg doesn’t have an animal shelter. Animal Control Officer Randy Hunt said the city has a contract with the Lewis County animal shelter, so that is where the confiscated dogs would be taken.

Officials at the Lewis County shelter said taking in banned pit bulls wouldn’t cause a big problem for them. They said pit bulls are still allowed in Lewis County, with certain restrictions, and they can usually find homes for the dogs.